Food Low in Phosphate and Potassium

Your doctor or certified dietitian might prescribe a diet low in phosphorous and potassium if you have special medical needs. According to the Mayo Clinic, persons with kidney dysfunction may have elevated levels of phosphorus and potassium and need to limit intake of these nutrients in their diet to avoid further health complications such as bone disease. Additionally, research has found that foods high in phosphorus may help accelerate cancerous tumor growth and should be avoided by those in treatment for cancer.

Refined Grains

• Whole grains have higher levels of phosphorus. Even though they are recommended as part of a healthy, fiber-rich diet, whole grains should be switched out for foods made with refined grains. Bread and rolls, cereal, crackers, rice and pasta should all be made with refined white flour from wheat or rice.

Non-dairy Substitutes

• Milk, yogurt, cream, ice cream, frozen yogurt and most puddings, hard cheeses and soy cheeses are high in potassium phosphates. Instead of these dairy products, choose rice milk, non-dairy creamer, sorbet or sherbet, and cream or cottage cheeses, which are all lower in phosphorus. Substitute cream and sour cream with alternative fats such as vegetable oils, butter, margarine or mayonnaise.

Vegetables

• Vegetables lower in potassium and phosphorus include potatoes, squash, rutabaga, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, lettuce, peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, onions and green or wax beans. Green peas should come from a can or frozen source. Your dietitian may recommend that you peel and boil starchy vegetables to remove even more potassium.

Snacks

• Chocolate and cola soft drinks are high in phosphorous. When you want a sweet snack or beverage, choose hard or gummy candies or root beer, ginger ale or citrus-based sodas instead.